Chelsea Faces Striker Shortage After Delap Injury, Jackson Loan to Bayern

Chelsea secured a 2-0 victory over Fulham in the West London Derby, with goals from Joao Pedro and Enzo Fernandez, but the match was marked by controversy over two key VAR decisions that favored Chelsea and frustrated Fulham's camp. Despite the win putting Chelsea top of the Premier League table, the Blues suffered a significant blow as striker Liam Delap sustained a hamstring injury early in the game, expected to sideline him for six to eight weeks, compounding concerns after Nicolas Jackson was loaned to Bayern Munich and Christopher Nkunku was sold to AC Milan, leaving Chelsea with limited senior striking options. Chelsea manager Enzo Maresca acknowledged the severity of Delap's injury and the potential need to reinforce attacking options before the transfer deadline. Additionally, Chelsea's squad management showed strategic rotation with Reece James being rested to manage his fitness ahead of international duty, with Malo Gusto starting in his place. The game and subsequent squad developments highlight Chelsea's challenges balancing player fitness, squad depth, and the transfer market as they contend at the top of the league.